Garden Q&A – Summer Gardens
As Californians it’s our responsibility to use water wisely, and in our landscapes, California native plants offer both beautiful natural resource conservation and habitat benefits.
Gardening and Horticulture
Restoring nature one garden at a time
Why Natives
The California Native Plant Society is restoring nature one garden at a time by supporting and encouraging the use of California native plants throughout our public and private landscapes. Planting California natives can help save water, reduce maintenance and pesticide use, and invite beneficial pollinators. Restore a sense of place in your community, provide important habitat for our wildlife, and help us preserve our very special ecosystem.
Garden Ambassadors
CNPS Garden Ambassadors are inspiring communities by showcasing the beauty and endless possibilities of California native plant gardening. Meet your local ambassadors, or learn how you can become one!
Hot Topics
Garden inspiration
Get inspired by our CNPS Garden Ambassadors, and visit native gardens.
Native design basics
Use these landscape design principles to turn your space into a sustainable habitat.
Choosing your plants
Discover plants native to your city, create your own plant lists, and find a local nursery.
Prepping and planting
Remove grass, care for your soil, and follow these planting and watering tips.
Digging deeper
Control weeds and pests, prune, and learn about clean nursery practices.
School gardens
Learn how you can help a school start its own California native garden.
From the Blog
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Garden Q&A – Insect-Friendly Gardens
Been reading about the insect apocalypse and declining monarch butterfly populations? Find out why native insects important, and how to support them in a garden. -
Carl Mautner’s Riverside Garden
See a Riverside garden's seasonal beauty even with dry summers.